Apparatus and method for displaying diagnostic values

ABSTRACT

In a computerized analyzer linked to an onboard computer for complex machinery, a computer-readable binary pattern storage apparatus which has a plurality of binary patterns constituting an application program executable by the computerized analyzer. Sets of instructions in the application program are executable, in response to user input from a graphical user interface, to provide a variety of functions which include: monitoring and processing data received to provide groups of vertical and horizontal graphical coordinates suitable for graphing; displaying graphs on a visual display device from the graphical coordinates; rearranging and highlighting selected graph designations; providing a second horizontal scale to a selected portion of the horizontal graphical coordinates to give a selected graph a zoomed-in appearance; recording and displaying graphical time frames of the groups of graphical coordinates; and permitting the real-time and diagnostic-code-triggered collection, processing, and graphical display of data.

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority based upon copending U. S.Provisional Application No. 60/240,812, filed Oct. 17, 2000, and U.S.application Ser. Nos. 08/702,751 and 09/702,803, both filed Nov. 1,2000, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to monitoring a plurality of datachannels and processing and displaying monitored data on a hand-helddisplay apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates tomonitoring a plurality of data channels which carry data relating to amotor vehicle, processing, and displaying the monitored data on ahand-held automotive analyzer apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Proper operation of complex machinery requires proper operationof a large number of systems and subsystems of the machinery. When oneor more of those systems and subsystems does not operate properly, it isimportant to be able to analyze and diagnose problems so that theproblems can be remedied. Modern automotive vehicles are exemplary ofsuch complex machinery, and a large number of sensors are provided tomonitor a large number of parameters of systems and subsystems that areimportant to proper operation of an automotive vehicle. Provisions aremade for the sensors to provide data to data channels, and the datachannels are in communication with a computerized analyzer whichreceives and processes the sensor-provided data.

[0004] Computerized automotive analyzers are generally of two types:large stand alone units; and small, hand-held units. Generally, becauseof their size and complexity, stand alone analyzers are conventionallycapable of more complex data receiving and more complex data processingthan hand-held analyzers. However, it would be desirable if a hand-heldanalyzer were provided with the capabilities of a stand alone analyzerfor complex data receiving and complex data processing.

[0005] There are plural streams of data provided to a computerizedanalyzer via plural data channels. Yet, there are times when atechnician desires to focus on only one or a relatively small number ofdata channels at a time. In this respect, it would be desirable if acomputerized analyzer were provided which permits a technician to focuson one or a small number of data channels at a time.

[0006] Aside from focussing on a relatively small number of selecteddata channels at time, the technician may have a preferred order fordisplaying information from the selected data channels. A preferredorder for displaying information may relate to a logical sequence ofparameters under study. Moreover, the technician may wish to easilychange the order for displaying information from the selected datachannels. In this respect, it would be desirable if a computerizedanalyzer were provided which permits a technician to readily change theorder of information displayed for selected data channels.

[0007] A convenient way to enable a technician to select among graphsthat are available for display is to have a displayed list of availablegraphs. From such a displayed list of available graphs, when specificgraphs are selected, it would be desirable if selected graphs are insome way highlighted or distinguished from other members of thedisplayed list of available graphs.

[0008] When a two-dimensional graph is displayed, often the graph has ahorizontal axis and a vertical axis. Often the horizontal axis depictsmeasurements of time, and the vertical axis depicts measurements of aparameter that changes over the course of time. For a given graph, asingle scale of time on the horizontal axis is generally selected.However, it has been realized by the present inventors that it would bedesirable to be able to have a graphical display in which the time scalecan be changed for a portion of the horizontal axis. For example if aselected graph shows the measurement of a parameter versus time inseconds, it may be desirable if a portion of the horizontal axis wouldshow the measurement of the selected parameter versus time in tenths ofa second. When a second time scale is more detailed than a first timescale, for a portion of the horizontal axis of the graph, the portion ofthe more detailed second time scale is in a sense magnified with respectto the first time scale. Another way of stating this relationshipbetween the second time scale and the first time scale is that thesecond time scale is zoomed-in with respect to the first time scale. Inthis respect, it would be desirable if a computerized analyzer wereprovided in which a display can display a graph that has a first portionof the graph, which employs a first time scale, and which has a secondportion of the graph, which employs a zoomed-in time scale.

[0009] Thus, while the foregoing discussion indicates it to be wellknown to use computerized data monitoring and analysis for complexmachinery or equipment, there is no teaching or suggestion of a datamonitoring and analysis method and apparatus which has the followingcombination of desirable features: (1) provides a hand-held analyzerhaving the capabilities of a stand alone analyzer for complex datareceiving and complex data processing; (2) permits a technician to focuson one or a small number of data channels at a time; (3) permits atechnician to readily change the order of available graphs; (4) providesa way for selected data channels to be highlighted or distinguished fromother members of the displayed list of data channels; (5) provides agraphical display in which the time scale can be changed for a portionof the horizontal axis; and (6) can display a graph that has a firstportion of the graph, which employs a first time scale, and which has asecond portion of the graph, which employs a zoomed-in time scale.

[0010] The foregoing desired characteristics are provided by the uniquedata monitoring and analysis method and apparatus of the presentinvention as will be made apparent from the following descriptionthereof. Other advantages of the present invention over the prior artalso will be rendered evident.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In a data monitoring and analysis method and apparatus forcomplex machinery, a plurality of sensors provide data to an onboardcomputer. The onboard computer has a port for receiving a data linkconnector for connecting to a computerized analyzer, and the onboardcomputer port provides a plurality of data channels to the data linkconnector and to the computerized analyzer. The computerized analyzerincludes a computer-readable binary pattern storage apparatus which hasa plurality of binary patterns constituting an application programexecutable by a computer. The computer has a central microprocessor, amemory, means for loading the application program into a defined addressspace of the memory, an operating system which provides a graphical userinterface, and a visual display device controlled by the applicationprogram and by a user employing the graphical user interface. Theinvention provides a computer-readable binary pattern storage apparatuswhich has a plurality of binary patterns constituting an applicationprogram executable by a computer. The computer has a centralmicroprocessor, a memory, for loading the application program into adefined address space of the memory, an operating system providing agraphical user interface, and a visual display controlled by theapplication program and by a user using the graphical user interface.The computer is connected to a plurality of data channels. Thecomputer-readable binary pattern storage apparatus is housed in ahand-held computerized analyzer. The application program includes aplurality of sets of instructions with each set executable by themicroprocessor.

[0012] The sets of instructions in the application program include asfollows.

[0013] A set of monitoring instructions is executable to monitor datareceived from a data channel and to monitor time.

[0014] A set of data and time processing instructions is executable toprocess the received data and the monitored time into groups ofinformation suitable for display on the visual display device. Also, theset of data and time processing instructions are executable to provide alist of information designations on the visual display device for thegroups of information that can be displayed on the visual displaydevice. The groups of information include groups of graphicalcoordinates suitable for graphing, and the list of informationdesignations includes graph designations which designate graphs that canbe displayed on the visual display device from the graphicalcoordinates.

[0015] A set of list rearrangement instructions is executable to beresponsive to the graphical user interface to permit the user torearrange the list of the information designations displayed on thevisual display device.

[0016] A set of graph selection instructions is executable to beresponsive to the graphical user interface and responsive to selectedgraph designations to provide a group of selected graphs to be displayedin a graphical display mode.

[0017] A set of graph display instructions is executable to beresponsive to the graph selection instructions for displaying the groupof selected graphs on the visual display device.

[0018] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a set ofhighlighting instructions is executable to be responsive to the selectedgraphs to be displayed in a graphical display mode. The highlightinginstructions cause the group of selected graphs to be highlighted on thevisual display device.

[0019] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a set ofgraph display instructions is executable to be responsive to the graphselection instructions for displaying the group of selected graphs onthe visual display device, wherein each graph is displayed has avertical scale for the vertical graphical coordinates and has a firsthorizontal scale for the horizontal graphical coordinates.

[0020] A set of graph scale changing instructions is executable on aportion of the horizontal graphical coordinates, which has the firsthorizontal scale of a selected graph that is selected by the useremploying the graphical user interface, for providing a secondhorizontal scale to the selected portion of the horizontal graphicalcoordinates. The second horizontal scale is larger than the firsthorizontal scale, and as a result, the graph that is displayed has azoomed-in appearance.

[0021] In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, a set oftime frame recording instructions is executable to be responsive to thegraphical user interface to permit the user to select recording ofgraphical time frames of the groups of graphical coordinates. Thegraphical time frames are suitable for graphing.

[0022] A set of time frame selection instructions is executable to beresponsive to the graphical user interface to permit the user to selectrecorded graphical time frames to be displayed in a graphical displaymode on the visual display device.

[0023] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, a setof real-time data collection instructions is executable to be responsiveto the graphical user interface to permit the real-time collection ofdata, processing of data, and displaying real-time processed datagraphically.

[0024] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a set ofdiagnostic-code-triggered data collection instructions is executable tobe responsive to the graphical user interface to permit the collectionof data, processing of data, and displaying processed data graphicallyin response to a diagnostic code trigger.

[0025] A set of trigger line display instructions is executable inresponse to the diagnostic-code-triggered data collection, for graphinga trigger line the diagnostic-code-triggered graphs on the visualdisplay device. accordance with another aspect of the invention, amethod is provided for displaying data from a plurality of data channelsand for displaying information processed from the data on a visualdisplay device which is responsive to a graphical user interface. Themethod includes the steps of: monitoring sensed data received from theplurality of data channels and monitoring time; processing the senseddata and the monitored time into groups of information suitable fordisplay on the visual display device; and listing informationdesignations on the visual display device for the groups of informationthat can be displayed on the visual display device. The groups ofinformation include groups of graphical coordinates suitable forgraphing, and the list of information designations includes graphdesignations which designates graphs that can be displayed on the visualdisplay device from the graphical coordinates.

[0026] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the methodincludes the steps of: rearranging the information designations in thelist on the visual display device by a user employing the graphical userinterface; selecting information designations by the user employing thegraphical user interface to provide a group of selected graphs to bedisplayed in a graphical display mode on the visual display device; anddisplaying, by the user employing the graphical user interface, thegroup of selected graphs on the visual display device.

[0027] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, methodincludes the steps of: highlighting the selected informationdesignations by the user employing the graphical user interface toprovide a group of selected graphs to be displayed in a graphicaldisplay mode on the visual display device; and displaying thehighlighted group of selected graphs on the visual display device, oneat a time, by the user employing the graphical user interface.

[0028] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the methodincludes the steps of: selecting, by a user employing the graphical userinterface, a graph designation; for the graph represented by theselected graph designation, selecting a second horizontal scale for aportion of the horizontal graphical coordinates associated with theselected graph, for providing a second horizontal scale to the selectedportion of the horizontal graphical coordinates for the selected graph;and displaying on the visual display device, by the user employing thegraphical user interface, the selected graph which has a portion of thehorizontal graphical coordinates having the second horizontal scale.

[0029] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the methodincludes the steps of: recording time frames of the groups of thegraphical coordinates, in response to the graphical user interface,wherein the graphical time frames are suitable for graphing; andselecting recorded time frames of the groups of the graphicalcoordinates, in response to the graphical user interface, for displayingin a graphical display mode on the visual display device.

[0030] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the methodincludes the steps of: collecting data in real-time; processing data inreal-time; and displaying processed data graphically in real-time on thevisual display device.

[0031] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the methodincludes the steps of: collecting data in response to a diagnostic codetrigger; processing the data collected in response to the diagnosticcode trigger; and displaying/storing thediagnostic-code-triggered-processed data graphically on the visualdisplay device.

[0032] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more importantfeatures of the invention in order that the detailed description thereofthat follows may be better understood, and in order that the presentcontribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are, of course,additional features of the invention that will be described below andwhich will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

[0033] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of theinvention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is notlimited in its application to the details of construction and to thearrangements of the components set forth in the following description orillustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of otherembodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminologyemployed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose ofdescription and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0034] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that theconception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilizedas a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systemsfor carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It isimportant, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including suchequivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spiritand scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035]FIGS. 1A, 1B, and IC together comprise a flowchart depicting theoverall data monitoring and analysis method and apparatus of theinvention.

[0036]FIG. 2 is a screen shot of the visual display device in which alist of sensors and switches available for data display and graphing isshown and in which a specific selected sensor has been moved to the topof the list.

[0037]FIG. 3 is a screen shot of the visual display device in whichselected sensors for data display and graphing are shown in highlighted(enlarged) alphanumeric characters.

[0038]FIG. 4 is a screen shot of the visual display device in which aparticular sensor has been selected for graphing, including a zoomed-inportion, and in which the selected graph is displayed on the visualdisplay device.

[0039]FIG. 5 is a screen shot of the visual display device in which aparticular sensor has been selected for graphing, including a zoomed-inportion, and in which the selected graph employs a trigger line in thezoomed-in graph portion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0040] An embodiment of the computer-readable binary pattern storageapparatus of the invention is a portion of a hand-held computerizedanalyzer known as the Genisys System manufactured by SPX Corporation.

[0041] The Genisys System is an easy-to-use hand-held instrumentdesigned to operate software applications (application programs)developed for automotive diagnostics. A variety of features of theGenisys System are disclosed in additional pending U.S. patentapplications. Such pending U.S. patent applications include U.S.application Ser. Nos. 08/702,751 and 09/702,803, both filed Nov. 1,2000, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] The Genisys System employs an internal operating system thataccesses software programs residing in the internal memory. The programsare brought into the internal memory by a number of optionalcomputer-readable binary pattern storage apparatuses which include anexternal memory card, such as a flash memory card, a smart card, ahardware interface port (HIP) module, a cartridge, and a hard drive,among others. A hardware interface port (HIP) module can be provided toreceive a HIP module. The HIP module and cartridge are generally usedfor backward emulation while the smart card is generally used forsecurity purposes. The Genisys System can also communicate with personalcomputers through an RS-232 connection and with printers equipped withinfrared communication capabilities.

[0043] The Genisys System has command keys which allow a user to operatea graphical user interface with the computerized analyzer. The commandkeys include a power key, function keys, a direction key, and actionkeys.

[0044] The power key turns the power to the computerized analyzer on andoff.

[0045] The function keys are employed by the user to activate differentparts of the applications programs. The functions of the function keysare controlled by the software and change as different parts of a testprocedure are displayed on the visual display device of the computerizedanalyzer. A visual command bar (for selecting a command) is provided onthe visual display device, and the direction key permits the user tomove the command bar in a left, up, right, or down direction on thevisual display device. Once the command bar highlights a desired,command, the user presses an enter key (one of the action keys) toactivate the selected command. The operation of the command bar, thedirection key, and the enter key is analogous to the operation thescroll keys or a mouse, with pointing and clicking, in a Windowsenvironment.

[0046] The action keys activate an action or request an application. Theactions keys include a help key, an enter key, a menu key, and an exitkey.

[0047] The Genisys System is battery powered and includes an externalpower port for powering tool and recharging the battery.

[0048] Additional automotive diagnostic software programs can be addedto increase testing capability. Expanded communications and programflash memory updates can also be employed when available. A UniversalSerial Bus (USB) protocol adds even more expansion capabilities. Devicessuch as a keyboard, hard drive, or other USB peripherals can also beemployed with the Genisys System.

[0049] The Genisys System includes a data link connector for connectingto a data port on an automotive vehicle. A connector cable is used toconnect the data link connector to the computerized analyzer portion ofthe Genisys System.

[0050] The computer-readable binary pattern storage apparatus of theinvention can be in one or more of the optional computer-readable binarypattern storage apparatuses mentioned above.

[0051] In the Genisys System, the Applications Manager is the main menufrom which all programs are selected. The menu selections of theApplications Manager include, but is not limited to, the following menuitems: cartridge module; Genisys 99; playback; system setup; andself-running demonstration.

[0052] When the system setup menu item is selected in the ApplicationsManager, the system setup menu appears on the visual display device, andthe system setup menu includes, but is not limited to, the followingmenu items: contrast; header; language; printer; power settings;versions; and unit defaults.

[0053] When the Genisys 99 menu item is selected from the ApplicationsManager, the selection activates the Genisys 99 diagnostics programwhich processes vehicle control system data into an easily readableformat for the visual display device, and then makes the formatted dataaccessible through the Genisys tool. The program reads, graphs, andrecords sensor and switch input or output (data stream). The programalso reads diagnostic trouble codes and performs special tests.

[0054] By way of example, when the Genisys 99 menu item is selected fromthe Applications Manager, the Genisys 99 diagnostics program providesthe user with a first vehicle description screen which displaysmanufacturers. Each unique vehicle has a different selection method. Onesuch method is as follows. Once a manufacturer is selected, a secondscreen is provided for selection of a make. When the make is selected, athird screen is provided for selection of body type. Once a body type isselected, a fourth screen is provided for selection of carline. Once acarline is selected, a fifth screen is provided for engine. Once anengine is selected a six screen is provided for indicating requiredcables between the vehicle's onboard computer port and the GenisysSystem.

[0055] When the Genisys System is connected to the vehicle onboardcomputer, the Genisys 99 diagnostics program tests all On-BoardDiagnostics Two (OBD II) applications of vehicles equipped with an OBDII emissions standard system., as well as many of the OBDI systems.Then, the Genisys 99 diagnostics program initiates the diagnosticprocess by creating a custom menu that lists tests and proceduresavailable for each vehicle description entered into the program. Fromthe custom diagnostic menu and the function keys, a number of powerfultest options can be selected, such as, but not limited to: DATASTREAM;RECORD; DIAGNOSTIC CODES; and SPECIAL TESTS.

[0056] The DATASTREAM menu selection enables the user to view vehiclesensor and switch data stream information communicated from the vehiclecomputer. The sensors can be arranged for side-by-side display on thevisual display device and for real-time graphing on the visual displaydevice. Also, the data stream information can be recorded and printedfor examination as a document. The key features of the presentinvention, as explained further below, are accessed through theDATASTREAM menu selection.

[0057] With reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, the overall operation ofthe data monitoring and analysis method and apparatus of the inventionis depicted. The largest block 10 represents a computer-readable binarypattern storage apparatus which can be implemented in a variety of ways,such as an external memory card, such as a flash memory card, a smartcard, a hardware interface port (HIP) module, a cartridge, and a harddrive, among others. The computer-readable binary pattern storageapparatus 10 has a plurality of binary patterns constituting anapplication program executable by a computer which has a centralmicroprocessor, a memory, means for loading the application program intoa defined address space of said memory, an operating system providing agraphical user interface, and a visual display controlled by theapplication program and by a user using the graphical user interface.The computer is connected to a plurality of data channels that areprovided by a vehicle onboard computer 12.

[0058] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 14, for monitoring and receiving datafrom the vehicle onboard computer 12 through the data channels, from acomputer clock 16, and from the graphical user interface 17 forcommanding data collection.

[0059] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 18, for storing or recording thecollected data on the computer-readable binary pattern storage apparatus10.

[0060] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 20, for processing the collected dataand for storing the processed data in files on the computer-readablebinary pattern storage apparatus 10, represented by block 22.

[0061] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 24, for reading the processed datafrom block 22 and for converting the processed data into converted fileson the computer-readable binary pattern storage apparatus 10,represented by block 26.

[0062] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 28, for processing the converted datainto coordinates suitable for graphing and for storing the graphicalcoordinates in files on the computer-readable binary pattern storageapparatus 10, represented by block 30.

[0063] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 32, for processing the files ofgraphical coordinates into a list of sensors and switches that can begraphed. Also, the applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 34, for displaying the list on thevisual display device, represented with this particular display by block36.

[0064] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 38, for receiving commands from thegraphical user interface, represented by block 40, for commanding areordering of the list of sensors provided by block 32.

[0065] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 42, for processing the previous listinto a reordered list that is stored in files on the computer-readablebinary pattern storage apparatus 10, represented by block 44.

[0066] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 46, for displaying the reordered liston the visual display device, represented with this particular displayby block 48.

[0067] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 50, for reading the reordered listfrom the files represented block 44 and for receiving commands from thegraphical user interface, represented by block 52, for highlightingmembers of the reordered list.

[0068] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 54, for processing the commands fromthe graphical user interface from block 52 in conjunction with the listfrom block 50 to provide files on the computer-readable binary patternstorage apparatus 10, represented by block 56, which contains processeddata for a highlighted list of sensors and switches.

[0069] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 58, for displaying the highlightedlist on the visual display device, represented with this particulardisplay by block 60.

[0070] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 62, for receiving the processed datafor a highlighted list of sensors and switches from block 56, forreceiving commands from the graphical user interface (represented byblock 64) for selecting a sensor or switch to graph, for receivingcommands from the graphical user interface (represented by block 66) forchoosing between a graphical display of real-time data or stored data,and for receiving commands from a diagnostic code trigger (representedby block 68) for graphing data related to a diagnostic code that hasbeen sensed to be out of specifications.

[0071] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 70, for deciding if a graph to bedisplayed does include a diagnostic code trigger line 11 (see FIG. 5) ordoes not include a diagnostic code trigger line 11 (see FIG. 4). Theapplications program includes a set of executable instructions,represented by block 72, for processing a graph to include a diagnosticcode trigger line 11. Also, the applications program includes a set ofexecutable instructions, represented by block 74, for processing a graphwhich does not include a diagnostic code trigger line 11.

[0072] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 76, for preparing a graph thatincludes a non-zoomed-in region and a zoomed-in region. With thenon-zoomed-in region, there are vertical graphical coordinates and firsthorizontal graphical coordinates. With the zoomed-in region, there arethe vertical graphical coordinates and second horizontal graphicalcoordinates. The second horizontal graphical coordinates have a greaterscale than the first horizontal graphical coordinates. In this respect,the set of executable instructions, represented by block 76, includesgraph scale changing instructions.

[0073] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 78, for displaying a graph having atleast one non5 zoomed-in region and a zoomed-in region on the visualdisplay device, represented with this particular display by block 80. Itis noted that a graphical display that include one non-zoomed-in regionthat precedes the zoomed-in region is shown in FIG. 4.

[0074] The applications program includes a set of executableinstructions, represented by block 81, which receives graphingcoordinates for displaying one non-zoomed-in region and a zoomed-inregion on the visual display device (from block 78), and which forreceives commands from the graphical user interface, represented byblock 82, for selecting graph time frames for display, whereby thevisual display device, represented with this particular display by block86, displays a graph time frame which includes a first non-zoomed-inregion, a middle zoomed-in region, and a second non-zoomed-in region,such as shown in FIG. 5.

[0075] Once all of the desired graphs and graph time frames have beendisplayed, other functions can be commanded by the graphical userinterface, represented by the generic block 84, for executing other setsof instructions, represented by generic block 85, which may includeinstruction for looping the applications program back to another programportion, or the computer can be turned off. Both looping and turning thecomputer off are represented by circle 86.

[0076] More specifically with respect to the DATASTREAM menu selection,the data stream is the plurality of electrical signals sent between thevehicle sensors or switches and the vehicle onboard computer. In thecomputerized analyzer, the data stream is retained (in data buffers),processed, and displayed on the visual display device in a readableformat for the technician. In the computerized analyzer, the data streamdisplay format arranges either a preselected group of sensors or all ofthe sensors and switches detected on the vehicle in alphabetical orderon the visual display device. Once the detected sensors and switcheshave been displayed on the visual display device in alphabetical order,the technician can arrange the order of the sensors and switches in anydesired order. To do so, the technician highlights the desired sensor orswitch. Then, the technician presses the To Top function key. Thisresults in the selected sensor or switch being moved to the top of thelist on the visual display device. See FIG. 2. Another feature is theability to sort by alphabetical, graphed items and action items.

[0077] Once the sensors or switches have been placed in the desiredorder on the visual display device, a number of options are availablewhich permit data stream review and amplification. These optionsinclude: highlighting (by enlarging) selected sensors or switches;recording data; zooming to increase the viewable data window; graphingto visually enhance data interpretation; displaying configuration toenable sensor comparison; and printing to capture data on paper.Highlighted information designations (by enlarged sensor list entries)for the sensors for engine speed and crankshaft retard are enlarged inFIG. 3.

[0078] With respect to the function of recording data, either duringroad testing or stationary testing, the record function continuouslyreceives data streams through the data channels to create a recording ofsensor or switch activity. This sensor or switch activity can be viewedin real-time as a graph, or the sensor or switch activity can beretained for detailed examination at a later time. The sensor or switchactivity can also be saved as a file. Two methods are available tocapture data or sensor information generated during road or stationarytesting: automatic recording; and diagnostic-code-triggered recording.

[0079] With automatic recording, the sensors that are graphed on thevisual display device automatically display past and present data. Thepast data is read from the data buffers in the computerized analyzer. Ifdesired, the record key is pressed to capture and hold sensor data thatoccurred before and after the time the record key was pressed.

[0080] With diagnostic-code-triggered recording, sensor data isautomatically recorded before (from buffered data) and after a troublecode is generated. To view a diagnostic-code-triggered recording, themenu key is pressed to return the user to the Applications Manager menu.Then, the playback menu selection is selected, and the enter key ispressed. A list of recorded files is displayed on the visual displaydevice, and the desired recorded file is selected, and the enter key ispressed. The direction key can then be used. Pushing the direction keyto the left causes earlier frames to be viewed in sequence. Pushing thedirection key to the right causes later frames to be displayed insequence.

[0081] When automatic recording is to be employed, the following stepsare taken. A particular sensor or switch is selected using the visualcommand bar, and the record function key is pressed to instantly createa series of files for the selected sensor or switch. To view anautomatic recording, the menu key is pressed to return the user to theApplications Manager menu. Then, the playback menu selection isselected, and the enter key is pressed. A list of recorded files isdisplayed on the visual display device, and the desired recorded file isselected, and the enter key is pressed. The direction key can then beused. Pushing the direction key to the left causes earlier frames to beviewed in sequence. Pushing the direction key to the right causes laterframes to be displayed in sequence.

[0082] Sensor data is retrieved continuously sent from the vehicleonboard computer to the computerized analyzer. To review the most recentdata captured by the computerized analyzer, the left side of thedirectional key is pressed. Then, the data is frozen instantly. If onecontinues to press the left side of the directional key, earlierrecorded data is presented on the visual display device in aframe-by-frame presentation. When the exit key is pressed, a live,real-time presentation is displayed on the visual display device.

[0083] To save a recorded file so that it can be retrieved and studiedlater, the menu key is pressed. This takes the visual display deviceback to the Applications Manager menu. Then, the playback menu item isselected, and the enter key is pressed. Then, the event file isselected, and the save function key is pressed. Then, a diskette iconappears to the left of the name of the saved file.

[0084] To delete a recorded file, the event file is selected, and thedelete key is pressed to delete the selected file.

[0085] The zoom function displays a graph for a selected sensor orswitch, magnifies the label for an information designation duringgraphing, and magnifies a portion of a displayed graph for theassociated information designation.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 4, a graph for engine speed is shown. Generally,a graph displays sensor data in a continuously updated graph. As shownin FIG. 4, the graph display on the visual display device provides agraph divided into two graphical window zones. A first graphical windowzone is shown on the left side of the graph, and the first graphicalwindow zone depicts past activity of the respective sensor. A secondgraphical window zone depicts magnified real-time sensor activity.Within the magnified graphical window zone, a dotted line trigger pointcan be moved over the data line to freeze and magnify any part of thecaptured data. As data is graphed, the minimum and maximum sensormeasurements are displayed along with the current measurements. To bringgraphs to the visual display device, the following steps are followed.In a list of information designations, a sensor to be graphed isselected with the visual command bar, and the enter key is pressed. Totoggle the graph function on and off, the enter key is pressed again. Totoggle graph magnification on and off, the zoom key is pressed multipletimes.

[0087] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5, a graph can display sensordata by virtue of the location of a trigger line displayed on therespective graph. The magnified portion of a graph is displayed bothbefore and after the trigger line. The position of the trigger line onthe respective graph is selected by using the direction key and pressingthe direction key to the right or left to move the trigger line to theright or left along the graph. With the use of the trigger line, thegraphed data is both magnified and frozen. To return to real-time datagraphing, the exit key is pressed.

[0088] By pressing the RECORD function key, data is quickly capturedthat occurs before and after the function key is pressed. Also, theRECORD function key also provides for viewing a file that is recordedwhen a diagnostic trouble code is detected.

[0089] The DIAGNOSTIC CODES menu selection enables the user to viewdiagnostic trouble codes set by the onboard vehicle computer. Also, theGenisys 99 diagnostics program can view pending codes to see if atrouble code is about to be set. Also, the Genisys 99 diagnosticsprogram lists the General Motors OBD II trouble code designations of A,B, C, and D to help lead a technician through problem diagnoses in orderof importance. The DIAGNOSTIC CODES menu selection also enables the userto clear diagnostic codes in the vehicle onboard computer. Through theDIAGNOSTIC CODES menu selection, the Genisys 99 diagnostics program alsoprovides a freeze frame option which shows a frame of sensor data thatis captured at the moment a trouble code is set in the vehicle onboardcomputer. Through the DIAGNOSTIC CODES menu selection, the Genisys 99diagnostics program reads codes recorded in the vehicle onboard computerfor the following tests: key-on, engine-off self-test; key-on,engine-off injector buzz test; key-on, engine-off output relays test;key-on, engine-running test; key-on, engine-running glowplug test;key-on, engine-running cylinder contribution test; and key-on,engine-running switch test.

[0090] The SPECIAL TESTS menu selection initiates many specific testsfor vehicle sensors as well as controlling General Motors bi-directionaldevices and viewing the immediate sensor reactions on the visual displaydevice. Through the SPECIAL TESTS menu selection, the Genisys 99diagnostics program conducts tests specific for the vehicle beingtested. These tests are, but not limited to, readiness status; drivecycle; oxygen sensor test; component parameters (e.g. catalyst orevaporative system); output controls (e.g. hi-speed fan on, low-speedfan on, all outputs on); evaporative system leak test; engine controls(e.g. air pump control, crankshaft variable learn, fan on/off, high fancontrol, low fan control, idle air control position, idle speed control,spark retard control, and starter inhibit control); evaporative emissioncontrols (e.g. canister purge solenoid control, canister vent solenoidcontrol, exhaust gas recirculation control, exhaust gas recirculationvent solenoid control, and evaporative service bay test); fuel systemcontrols (e.g. fuel pump relay, fuel injector disable, fuel closed loopcontrol, and fuel trim reset); and diesel controls (e.g. boost controlsolenoid, fuel injection timing control, engine shutoff solenoid, andglow plug relay control).

[0091] The SPECIAL TESTS menu selection also initiates tests. Thesetests are, but not limited to, the following: engine indicator lampscontrol (e.g. alternator lamp control, change oil lamp control, checkgauges lamp control, engine hot lamp control, low coolant lamp control,MIL lamp control, oil level lamp control, oil pressure lamp control, andservice throttle soon lamp control); transmission controls (e.g.pressure control solenoid, reverse inhibit control, torque converterclutch control, transmission gear control, 3-2 control solenoid, presetor reset adaptive parameters control, and skip shift control);transmission indicator lamps control (e.g. 1-4 shift lamp control, 2ndgear start lamp control, shift lamp control, and up-shift lamp control);accessory controls (e.g. air conditioning clutch relay, alternatorL-terminal control, and cruise inhibit); engine actuator tests; idle aircontrol; enable/disable tests for different actuators; minimum air idlespeed; emission maintenance reminder (EMR) lamp reset; set timingsynchronization mode; reset idle air control; reset adaptive fueladjustment; reset minimum throttle position sensor; reset flexible fuelpercent; enable door lock; disable door lock; display of specificvehicle information; vehicle computer identification test; and displayof vehicle and system identification information.

[0092] After repairs have been completed, the repairs can be verifiedwith Drive Cycle Enable Criteria. A specific Vehicle System Monitor canbe activated to verify the repairs. Alternatively, a Full Drive Cyclecan be performed to enable all Vehicle System Monitors.

[0093] Another feature of the Genisys 99 diagnostics program is theability to emulate another computerized analyzer. More specifically,using a cartridge containing OTC Pathfinder '99, of OTC/SPX Corporation,Owatonna, Minnesota, the visual display device emulates an EnhancedMonitor 4000 unit. One special feature of the Enhanced Monitor 4000 unitis the display of an on-screen keyboard that permits menu choices andfunction choices.

[0094] It is apparent from the above that the present inventionaccomplishes all of the objects set forth by providing a new andimproved data monitoring and analysis method and apparatus that providesa hand-held analyzer having the capabilities of a stand alone analyzerfor complex data receiving and complex data processing With theinvention, a data monitoring and analysis method and apparatus isprovided which permits a technician to focus on one or a small number ofdata channels at a time. With the invention, a data monitoring andanalysis method and apparatus is provided which permits a technician toreadily change the order of available graphs. With the invention, a datamonitoring and analysis method and apparatus provides a way for selecteddata channels to be highlighted or distinguished from other members ofthe displayed list of data channels . With the invention, a datamonitoring and analysis method and apparatus provides a graphicaldisplay in which the time scale can be changed for a portion of thehorizontal axis. With the invention, a data monitoring and analysismethod and apparatus is provided which can display a graph that has afirst portion of the graph, which employs a first time scale, and whichhas a second portion of the graph, which employs a zoomed-in time scale.

[0095] The above description and drawings are only illustrative ofpreferred embodiments which achieve the objects, features, andadvantages of the present invention, and it is not intended that thepresent invention be limited thereto. Any modification of the presentinvention which comes within the spirit and scope of the followingclaims is considered to be part of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A diagnostic tool, comprising: a data input port;a microprocessor linked to said data input port; a data storage devicelinked to said microprocessor wherein a diagnostic application programcan be stored in said data storage device; a graphical user interfacelinked to said microprocessor wherein said microprocessor receivesdiagnostic data from said data input port, stores said data to said datastorage device, and provides output data to be displayed on saidgraphical user interface; and wherein said output data is displayed onsaid graphical user interface as a list having an identification of eachdiagnostic value and the diagnostic value.
 2. The diagnostic tool ofclaim 1 wherein the location of a diagnostic value in the list ofdiagnostic values is selectable by a user.
 3. The diagnostic tool ofclaim 2 further comprising an input device for selecting diagnosticvalues in the list.
 4. The diagnostic tool of claim 3 wherein said inputdevice can be used to select a diagnostic value and move it to the topof the list.
 5. The diagnostic tool of claim 4 wherein said input devicecan be used to change the font of an entry in the list of diagnosticvalues.
 6. The diagnostic tool of claim 5 wherein said data input portlinks to and receives data from an onboard vehicle computer.
 7. Thediagnostic tool of claim 6 wherein said data storage device is a flashmemory card and wherein said diagnostic application program is loaded onsaid flash memory card prior to inserting said flash memory card intosaid diagnostic tool.
 8. The diagnostic tool of claim 6 wherein saiddata storage device is a hardware interface port module containing saiddiagnostic application program and wherein said diagnostic tool containsa hardware interface port for receiving said hardware interface portmodule.
 9. The diagnostic tool of claim 8 wherein a plurality ofhardware interface port modules having separate diagnostic applicationprograms can be provided for connection, at different times, to saidhardware interface port.
 10. The diagnostic tool of claim 6 furthercomprising a transmitter connected to said microprocessor for wirelesslytransmitting data.
 11. The diagnostic tool of claim 10 wherein saidtransmitter is an infrared transmitter and wherein said data iswirelessly transmitted to a printer.
 12. A method of displayingdiagnostic data, comprising the steps of: displaying a list ofdiagnostic values on a graphical user interface of a handheld diagnostictool wherein said list includes an identification of each diagnosticvalue; selecting a first diagnostic value from the list of displayedvalues; and changing the location of the first selected diagnostic valuein the list.
 13. The method of claim 12 further comprising the steps ofselecting a second diagnostic value and changing the font of said secondselected diagnostic value.
 14. The method of claim 12 further comprisingthe step of loading a diagnostic application program into a memorydevice of said diagnostic tool.
 15. The method of claim 12 furthercomprising the step of storing a third diagnostic value into said memorydevice and displaying said third selected diagnostic value graphically.16. The method of claim 15 further comprising the step of expanding oneaxis over a portion of said graphical display.
 17. A diagnostic tool,comprising: a data input means for receiving data from sensors in avehicle; a data storage means for storing data received from saidvehicle sensors and for storing a diagnostic application program; a userinterface means for providing user readable output; a processor meansfor receiving data from said data input means, storing said data to saiddata storage means, and outputting data to be displayed on said userinterface means; and wherein said output data is displayed on said userinterface means as a list having an identification of each diagnosticvalue and the diagnostic value.
 18. The diagnostic tool of claim 17wherein the location of a diagnostic value in the list of diagnosticvalues is selectable by a user.
 19. The diagnostic tool of claim 18further comprising an input means for selecting diagnostic values in thelist.
 20. The diagnostic tool of claim 19 wherein said input device canbe used to select a diagnostic value and move it to the top of the list.